Toby Ord

Toby Ord is a Senior Research Fellow at Oxford University’s Future of Humanity Institute and an influential voice on humanity’s future. Known for his ability to convey complex global challenges with clarity and urgency, Toby is a captivating speaker whose work on existential risks and effective altruism has drawn international recognition, particularly with his acclaimed book, ‘The Precipice’.

Toby’s career began with a strong academic background. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in philosophy and mathematics from the University of Melbourne, he pursued graduate studies at Oxford, where he completed both a B.Phil. and D.Phil. in philosophy. His early research in moral philosophy and ethics set the stage for his later contributions to the field of effective altruism, which focuses on using evidence and reason to maximise positive global impact.

Among Toby’s many achievements, founding the international charity organisation Giving What We Can in 2009 stands out as a pivotal moment in his career. This organisation has mobilised thousands of people worldwide to donate at least 10% of their income to high-impact charities, with pledges now totalling over $1.5 billion. In 2020, Toby’s publication of The Precipice established him as a thought leader in assessing existential threats like climate change, nuclear warfare, pandemics, and unaligned artificial intelligence. His influence has since grown, with advisory roles at leading organisations including the United Nations, World Health Organization, and the UK Prime Minister’s Office.

Hiring Toby as a speaker offers audiences an opportunity to explore some of the most critical issues facing humanity today. His expertise in existential risk, global health, and the ethics of philanthropy is both timely and essential in our rapidly evolving world. With his engaging speaking style and deep commitment to making a meaningful impact, Toby is an exceptional choice for events focused on ethics, global security, and the future of humanity.